How to organize your dream vacation in Spain ?
Spain, rich in cultural heritage, architectural beauty, lush nature and its typical cuisine, offers the opportunity to live a memorable experience. The Spanish lands boast true gems within their diverse regions, making it a dream destination for a luxury getaway.
Spain is home to a wide diversity of landscapes, cultures, terroirs and traditions, giving it an exceptional character and charm that is hard to resist. Enjoy enriching discoveries of the Spanish lands, between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean, by organizing your luxury stay in Spain with MACNAA, a flagship destination in the European territory.
Experience Spain intensely with a journey synonymous with delight and exhilaration. Our experts accompany you in organizing a tailor-made trip to Spain, in all seasons.
Discover the lands of Spain
A luxury and tailor-made trip in Spain guarantees the discovery of the Spanish regions, each marked by diverse landscapes and a rich cultural and gastronomic heritage. Let yourself be surprised by experiencing an exceptional stay with MACNAA.
Catalonia and the East coast of Spain
Catalonia, a rich land located in the northeast of Spain, is bordered by the Pyrenees to the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the east. This region is a major cultural center in Europe and has strong assets to sustain tourism. Choosing Catalonia for your vacation entails no risk; it guarantees an appreciation of the region’s authenticity and all its aspects.
From the Pyrenees mountain to its beach resorts on the Costa Brava, Catalonia has all the characteristics to please a wide range of visitors and offers highly diverse stays.
Its history gives it an antique character among all the cities in Europe, especially with its ever-vibrant capital, Barcelona. Beaches, museums, charming hinterlands, perched villages, natural parks, mountain landscapes, deserted roads winding through the city on the Valencian side and its bustling beaches on the coast; the Catalonia region is breathtaking.
Catalonia is filled with true artistic treasures, especially in terms of architecture and modern art. A trip to the Catalan region allows you to discover the Romanesque churches of the Pyrenean valleys, as well as Gothic architectural styles with the Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange) in Valencia. These buildings represent the economic power of the city and were designed as a temple of commerce.
Did you know ?
Many great universal artists have been inspired by the fabulous landscapes of Catalonia, especially the Costa Daurada and the Terres de l’Ebre: Antoni Gaudí, Joan Miró, Pau Casals, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Antoni Tàpies, to name a few.
Catalonia region also houses the Palmeral de Elche or Horts de Palmeres d’Elx, which is the largest palm grove in Europe, making it the northernmost one in the world.
In terms of cuisine, Catalan gastronomy is a true art form. The Mediterranean has greatly influenced Catalan cuisine, giving it its characteristic dishes.
Resulting from a blend of Eastern and Western influences, this region in southern Spain is teeming with artistic, architectural, and natural treasures. Seville, Cordoba, Granada, Cadiz, Almeria, Ronda, Marbella… so many cultural blends and a diversity of landscapes that make Andalusia a dream destination for a trip to Spain.
During the Middle Ages, Arab conquerors settled in Spain. Muslims, Jews, and Christians coexisted peacefully on the Iberian Peninsula. In contemporary times, we can find remnants of these different civilizations in Andalusia, particularlyt fabulous arabesques that adorn many monuments and places which are now highly popular tourist destinations.
What to do in Andalusia?
With its capital, Seville, Andalusia is full of activities and historical monuments to discover for festive or family vacations.
- Seville : you can visit the Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire inside the scenes of Christ’s life, the works of art, goldsmithing and the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Another typical monument to visit: you have the opportunity to go to the Alcazar, the residence of the King of Spain when he stayed in Andalusia. This tourist site is a must-see; you will be absorbed by the absolutely sumptuous architecture and decoration and by its large gardens. The Santa Cruz district is the historic district of Seville and concentrates monuments, shops, restaurants, and cafes. Seville also has natural parks like Maria Luisa Park, ideal for walking and refreshing.
- Cordoba : the unmissable Mezquita de Córdoba or Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. The interior of the monument is breathtaking and quite impressive with its arches, columns, grandeur, red and white colors, and its architectural blend of mosque and cathedral. Finally, the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, the residence of the Catholic kings, the seat of the Inquisition in the 15th century, and then a prison in the early 1800s, the Alcazar finally became a national monument in the 1950s, becoming a flagship tourist attraction. You can then end your day by passing through the Roman bridge of Cordoba at sunset to admire the view of the whole city.
- Granada : discover the famous Alhambra of Granada, which comprises a set of palaces and is among the most emblematic monuments of Islamic architecture. The Alhambra is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most visited monuments in Spain.
- Malaga : a seaside and flagship destination of Andalusia, Malaga is known for its beach and cultural sites such as the Pablo Picasso Museum, which is none other than the artist’s birthplace and the Carmen Thyssen Malaga Museum, which houses a rich collection of Spanish paintings, particularly from Andalusia.
- Marbella : considered the upscale seaside resort of the Costa Del Sol, Marbella is highly appreciated for its kilometers of beaches, prestigious villas, luxury boutiques, and nightclubs. The nightlife is very developed in Marbella.
- Pueblos blancos (white villages) : Andalusia is known for its route of the white villages. Mostly located atop hills, these white villages are characterized by their white walls, which are intended to mitigate the heat. These villages and narrow streets add to the charm of Andalusia.
Madrid and Central Spain
The Spanish capital, Madrid, is nestled in the heart of the country and is renowned for its lively atmosphere and modernity. Visiting Madrid is a must, as are the two regions surrounding the capital: Castile-La Mancha and Castile and Leon.
Madrid boasts a wealth of cultural riches and is a city not to be missed when traveling to Spain. Exploring Madrid can revolve around the Plaza Mayor, the city’s main square surrounded by buildings with beautiful architecture. Next, the Royal Palace of Madrid, or Palacio Real, is a must-visit. This majestic palace, founded in the 12th century, is one of the most beautiful in Europe.
You can visit the city’s museums, such as the Prado Museum, one of the largest museums in the world, housing a vast collection of European paintings. Located next to the museum, you can find the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid, which hosts species of trees, shrubs, and flowers from around the world. This green setting is perfect for botany enthusiasts and for a leisurely break. The Reina Sofía National Art Center Museum is also a must-visit in Madrid.
Lastly, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is known for housing the Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza collection, which gave it its name. Finally, the magnificent Almudena Cathedral is among the list of monuments to absolutely visit in Madrid.
Basque Country
For a captivating trip to Spain, it’s highly rewarding to explore the Basque Country and the entire northern region of Spain. The traditions run deep here, and this authentic region is renowned for its spectacular landscapes, impressive beaches, gastronomy, and cultural riches.
What to do when visiting the Basque Country and northern Spain ?
A change of scenery awaits you when traveling to the Basque Country ! Instead of arid landscapes, you’ll encounter lush greenery. The region’s rich historical and natural heritage makes it an exotic destination while still remaining relatively close to France.
A must-visit during a trip to the Basque Country is the city of Bilbao, renowned for housing the Guggenheim Museum of Contemporary Art.
Another well-known destination in the Basque Country is the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe monastery, which was a pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages. The marine biodiversity there is unique, as the Atlantic Ocean surrounds the monastery perched on its islet. Access is via a narrow stone path, giving it a certain atmosphere and a timeless moment.
Next, visiting the town of Guernica will be a key part of your trip to Spain, as the city represents a significant aspect of Spanish and Basque history. Picasso’s painting depicts the tragic events that took place in Guernica in 1937 and enjoys international renown today.
Lastly, straddling the border between France and Spain, you can visit the Iraty Forest. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Iraty Forest is a must-see with its unique biodiversity. It is the largest beech forest in Europe.
Balearic Islands
In the heart of the Mediterranean, you will find a true paradise made up of several islands: Minorca, Mallorca, Ibiza and Formentera. This archipelago is located in the west of the Mediterranean Sea and comprises five main islands, including the four mentioned above.
- Mallorca is the largest island in the Balearic Islands and one of the most visited. By choosing Mallorca, you will enjoy its rich cultural heritage and its wonderful natural corners, its large beaches, the lively atmosphere of Palma Bay, and coves for more discreet swims. Mallorca also offers beautiful hiking trails allowing you to discover the island and enjoy breathtaking views.
- Ibiza : a party destination, but not only that, Ibiza is also known as a family-friendly destination, especially with its old town, Eivissa, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Formentera : the smallest island in the Balearic archipelago and one of the most beautiful with its landscapes, hills and the tranquility of its beaches.
Canary Islands
With truly paradisiacal and tropical landscapes, the Canary Islands are located off the northwest coast of Africa. This archipelago has often enjoyed the nickname “the sun of Europe” with its mild temperatures and rich natural environment. It’s worth noting that five of its islands have been classified as Biosphere Reserves and the Canary Islands have a total of four national parks. Perfect beaches for water sports, hinterlands ideal for hiking, volcanic expanses, dune beaches and forests, the Canary Islands make an excellent destination for a dream trip in Spain.
After choosing the destination and itinerary, it’s important to determine the ideal time period
When it comes to organizing your vacation in Spain, once the destination is chosen, one of the first steps is to consider the most suitable time period to visit, taking into account tourist flows and seasons. Spain can be visited outside of the summer season. The months of May, June, and September are the best months for a trip to Spain as you can avoid the intense heat and tourist crowds.
How to find accommodation in Spain ?
Accommodation is one of the crucial elements of your vacation in Spain. MACNAA manages these logistical aspects for you, so you can enjoy wonderful holidays with your family, with your children, as a couple or with friends.
Planning activities
Spain offers a variety of activities for successful vacations, whether with family and children or with friends. The experts at Macnaa agency organize and plan activities tailored to your desires for your stay.
Finally, getting around in Spain
It’s essential to consider transportation options when moving around Spain, including renting a car, taking taxis, using public transportation, and trains. If you plan to travel across the country, renting a car seems to be the best option.